An artist learning her craft.

Things I can’t do, and things I can’t stop doing…

A few weeks ago I started to try to paint my beliefs about faith and love. I drew some sketches and felt quite excited about it.

Well it turns out that I just can’t do it. I’m not blocked, artistically or otherwise. I’ve been sketching other things quite easily. It’s not that I’ve lost interest in the painting either – I still want to do it. It’s just that I can’t. I think it’s because the subject is really at the very centre of what matters to me. Any effort I might make feels like it’s nowhere good enough. The task is simply beyond me.

In the past people used to apprentice to a craft and eventually, if they were good enough, they might become a master craftsman. To be admitted to the guild rank of master they would have to produce a particularly fine piece of work which demonstrated their mastery of their chosen craft. This was called a ‘masterpiece‘. I think, for me, the test of being really able to paint one day will be, to be able to paint this picture I have in my heart – my masterpiece.

“In other news”… sadly I was refused permission from my local council to sell my paintings online from my home. Although I own my place it’s a leasehold and the lease conditions don’t allow it. In a way it was good to have that question properly answered. I will continue to paint of course, but it will be, as I’ve been doing so far, strictly for pleasure. I’ve got a job interview tomorrow so we’ll see how that works out. It’s at a school I’ve taught at before – a really lovely place – and it’s only for a couple of hours a day which I think I can manage pretty well despite my pain condition. I think it’s going to be fab if I can get the job.

Finally I want to post a picture. It’s only a doodle, a bit of fun really. I was watching Criminal Minds the other day. I love learning about how and why people behave in certain ways and in this TV show they often talk about that. While I was watching it I started doodling – I just can’t stop drawing (and also, I don’t like to watch the scary bits). So, after I scanned it in, here’s what I ended up with…

By the way – my son says when I tell a joke I should have some kind of sign so…“This was a joke!”

(When I tell him something’s a joke in conversation, he replies.. “Very nearly Mum.” and pats me on the back. LOL)

Thanks, that’s a good idea. I have thought about it but, asking around, it’s not been possible so far. I’m sure that when the time is right something will come up. Perhaps I can find a local gallery which will could sell my work? Thanks again!